Knittingbag.com

Crochet and lace trends

2011-05-26T09:19:00.000-04:00

The latest trend report from Urban Outfitters features a selection of crochet and lace styles for this coming spring. Many of these pieces incorporate lace and see-thru elements to pair with a bright camisole or bandeau underneath. I especially love the crochet bikini to keep in mind for summer (check out our previous blog to knit one of your own!), and the asymmetrical and loose-fitting designs that are perfect for any body type!

Photos courtesy of urbanoutfitters.com

Rodarte-inspired knitting

2010-12-13T13:37:00.000-05:00

Appearing on the runways not too long ago, we've finally decided that these beautiful Rodarte sweaters are a must-have (or must-KNIT) item for fall! The sweater and tights are made by crocheting mohair yarn to achieve this beautiful open-knit look. We love these beautiful and unique pieces, truly a one-of-a-kind project to take on this season. Plus we've found this great blog with DIY instructions, so you can create your own luxury sweater at a fraction of the price.
http://styledecoded.com/sd/2009/08/11/my-new-plan-knit-like-rodarte/

Knit Simple new December issue features designer, Marcia Cleary

2010-12-10T07:59:00.000-05:00

December 14, the Winter issue of Knit Simple hits the newstand! Knittingbag designer, Marcia Cleary has a featured item - a soft red angora Tied Wrap knit in Angora Bamboo by Patons. This wonderful winter cover-up requires 14 balls of yarn in #90532 flamenco, available for order through Knit Simple. Check out a preview of this upcoming issue on their website!

Knit Simple Winter 2010, photo by Rose Callahan

Blogs to blog about!

2010-12-06T07:51:00.025-05:00

As we search for ideas to write about we can't help but visit other blogs or inspiration--and some of these sites were so interesting that we just couldn't help just blogging about them!
Access Fashion
This blog features trendy designs in knitwear for the season, and some of these pieces are really over the top--the perfect source for inspiration! She also includes short book reviews, deals on yarn, and plenty of ideas to keep you knitting. Especially love the blog on new items from Victoria's Secret, some of their knitwear is just stunning.

The Dark Knit
The Dark Knit, another fashion blog, tends to base their posts around very funky knit images, truly giving some style to the page. It makes it so fun to look through even if you're just looking at the pictures! Love the post on Knit-a-Turban, these knit headbands are super cute and perfect for those messy hair days. These are very in this season as well, we've seen them on the runway and in stores so maybe Knittingbag will design one next!

Cats and Dogs
We love how this blogger features her favorite pieces in fashion with numerous photos to give us inspiration. Especially love those over-the-knee boots paired with a fur-trimmed collar--a great way to stay warm as we delve into the winter season. Be sure to keep up with this blog for the latest styles from season to season!

Trend Report for Fall 2010

2010-10-24T12:02:00.025-04:00

Knittingbag's fashion trend report for
fall/winter 2010

CHANEL

Color

Designers are going back to the basics this season with classic wintry colors like dark, warm browns and yellows mixed with bright blues and greens for a "cool" feel. Touches of reds and pinks spice up these simple hues on the runways as we begin to prepare for Fall. Gray and eggplant purple replace black.

Endive and Golden Glow

Chocolate truffle

Purple orchid

Woodbine

Lipstick red

Shapes and Details

This season, if ever there was a time to mix and match colors, fabrics, and patterns, this is it! Designers are using every idea they can think up and combining them into single pieces. Oversized, chunky sweaters are the rage, so you can forget knitting to size. Knit these wonderful chunky sweaters in neutrals or a rainbow of colors, and you can't go wrong. Big floppy necklines are back, this time sporting furry collars and mink accents to dress up simple sweaters and accessories. Also note the little cropped sweater and lots of Fair Isle are making a big comeback. And importantly, capes (sophisticated ponchos) and knitted tunics and dresses covered in cables are strong this season. Fur-trimmed sweaters and faux fur coats and accessories will be part of this winter's wardrobe.

Mixing Colors and Fabrics

Oversized Chunky Knits

Big Floppy Necklines

The Little Cropped Sweater

Knittingbag's cropped sweater

Cropped, interesting details, sleeves, back

Love the empire belt!

Coats and Capes

Fur, fur-trims

Artful Beautiful Knitting

Accessories

Easy Knitting!

On the Knittingbag needles now
(will update as projects change)

Classic Elite's Blue Topaz Stole in La Gran Mohair. Knit on US 15 needles. 4 balls.

Free downloadable pattern here. Pattern calls for rib stitch. I'm making a few for holiday gifts using the rice stitch.

Rice Stitch: RS rows: P1, *K1 through back loop, P1; repeat from * to end. WS rows: knit.

Knitting for Baby

The Bambino Taffy Baby Hat from Be Sweet knits up with one skein of self-striping cotton BAMBINO TAFFY yarn! Adorable hat, great gift idea. US 6 - 16" circular, 70% organic cotton, 30% bamboo. Wonderful colors. Easy to knit.

Books on Knitting ...... coming soon!

Knitting Block by Block by Nicky Epstein:

150 blocks for Afghans, Scarves, Sweaters, Bags and More (hardcover)

$19.79 on Amazon. Available Nov 9, 2010.

Inside you will find:

150 original block patterns, from simple textures to embossed pictorials, intricate lace to cables, colorwork, double knit, and more, all with Nicky’s signature wit, verve, and style.
More than ten exclusive project designs that will make you say “I can’t believe that is made out of blocks!”
Detailed guidance for creating exciting pieces out of block knitting, without using increases or decreases.
Exclusive cut-and-paste project design pages. Simply cut out the printed blocks and arrange them to help create your own masterpieces.

Blocks are quick to knit, portable pieces perfect for group and charity projects, and now not limited to just afghans! Knitting Block by Block gives you the tools to unlock a world of creative possibilities and confidently build your own design “blockbusters,” one block at a time.

Knit the Season by Kate Jacobs:

A Friday Night Knitting Club Novel (paperback)

$10.08 on Amazon. Available Nov 2, 2010.

The ladies of the #1 New York Times bestselling The Friday Night Knitting Club celebrate special times with family and friends.

Not only are the holidays are just around the corner, the women who knit at Manhattan's Walker & Daughter have an extra reason to celebrate: there's a wedding planned for New Year's Day. In the meantime, college-age Dakota Walker is working to finish a sweater her mother started before Dakota was born. As she takes on her mother's pattern, she learns from her family and friends that there was much more history in these stitches than she had anticipated, and that to build on her mother's legacy, Dakota must allow herself to become the woman she truly desires to be... :

Fresh Fashion Knits by Rowan:

More than 20 Must-Have Designs from Rowan's Studio (paperback)

$15.51 on Amazon. Available Oct 26, 2010.

Rowans produces great yarns you love to cast on and design the patterns you can’t wait to put on. Their worldwide reputation for style, quality, and value makes them the only name you need to know in knitting. Fresh Fashion Knits features the best of Rowan’s Studio Collection, bringing runway trends into knitwear. These designs by Sarah Hatton offer a fashion-conscious knitter a wide range of garment choices and yarn weights to make something for every season and every occasion.

Layer a luxurious chunky cardigan over your favorite jeans. Pair a soft, delicate cardigan over a flowing dress for the perfect summer look. With stylish tops and casually chic sweaters and dresses, this collection will inspire you to make an entire wardrobe of fabulous knit fashions.

Plus, Rowan makes it easy! Not only are these patterns clear and easy to use, but Fresh Fashion Knits gives you the tips and techniques for the best results, no matter what your skill level. The 21 patterns included in this book will have haute couture at your fingertips.

Be sure this book is in your knitting book collection!

365 Knitting Stitches a Year Perpetual Calendar

You can access hundreds of knitting stitches in a perpetual-calendar format! With a different stitch for every day of the year, this clever calendar design makes a valuable addition to every knitter's pattern collection.

• Instructions for 365 easy to advanced knitting stitches mean you can refer to your calendar year after year

• Each day spotlights a beautiful swatch in a full-color, close-up photograph

• Stitches range from simple knit and purl to ribs, cables, laces, and dozens of textured patterns

Contact Marcia Cleary at mcleary@knittingbag.com for special orders, questions and comments.

Knit Up Home Accents

2010-09-19T13:59:00.001-04:00

This month's issue of the Wall Street Journal magazine features a display of trendy accents for the home from this spring's Milan Furniture Fair. The twist on this year's most popular designs? They were all knitted from yarn or string, aiming to bring the comfort back to home sweet home. The featured pieces included chairs, lamp shades, room dividers, mats, vase,s and poufs, all knit in bright colors with extravagant shapes and designs.

Many observers have been wondering why this new trend has become so popular, but one man puts it perfectly. David McFadden, Museum of Arts and Design curator, believes that this new craze is simply "a reaction to living in this weird cyberspace: things that engage the hand and eye and tradition and tactility all mean a great deal more today than they would have 20 years ago."

Photos courtesy of wsj.com

Fall preview

2010-09-19T10:41:00.000-04:00

As the summer season comes to a close, fall trends are emerging all around us with chunky knits everywhere in sight. It seems that in every store I look at this season I see an over-sized scarf, sweater dress, or hat, covered in bold and eye-catching patterns.

The latest issue of Vogue Knitting features Project Runway winner Irina Shabayeva's newest collection of hand-knit garments. Her pieces encompass every trend of this season with her use of intricate patterns and textures and cool, wintry colors. Shabayeva's pieces are so thick and over-sized that you'll always stay warm this winter- while staying in style!

Photos courtesy of vogueknitting.com

Irina is a wonderful new designer. Keep an eye on her! Visit her web site here.

Shibori knitting

2010-08-05T13:31:00.002-04:00

There are so many different techniques that one can used to add texture to your knitwear. We particularly love this popular Japanese technique, called Shibori knitting. This process involves wrapping a rubber band around a section of fabric to create an interesting design, as depicted below. Jussi's blog provides more details on this technique so you can try it at home as you begin your next knit piece!

Want to learn more about Shibori knitwear and how to carry out these techniques? The book, Shibori Knits, takes this process a step further with the inclusion of 20 patterns and ideas on how to give an edgy look to your pieces of knitwear. We love Wilde's use of everyday household items to create these unique looks!

Love Net-a-Porter's Knitwear for Fall!

2010-07-27T20:20:00.001-04:00

Fall's almost here.... are you ready? Sticks and stash ready?
To prepare, we've been watching the newest trends of the season to heighten our excitement. Here are some new knitwear pieces that we love for this season, available at Net-a-Porter.com. We hope they inspire you to pick up those needles and start a new project!
Vote on your top two favorites in the comment section, and join our new Ravelry Group, "Knittingbag's Design Knit Along"!

Alice + Olivia beaded crochet shrug

Alexander Wang's cropped asymmetric style

Missoni's Lucilla Lurex knit wrap top

Alexander Wang's open knit sweater

Miu Miu Gray Wool Top with Ruffled Trim


Moschino Cheap and Chic Bow Sweater

Missoni Balleto Mohair blend Chunky Knit Cardi Coat

Alice + Olivia Celia Draped Linen and Silk Vest

Rowan's Autumn Winter 2010 Magazine No. 48

2010-07-23T07:56:00.000-04:00

Rowan's Autumn Winter 2010 magazine is now available at your LYS or order online at knitrowan.com. Full of over 46 patterns, beautifully photographed, wonderful ideas, inspired by romantic folk art, Russian dolls, and Nomad textiles. Join Rowan International and you'll be mailed two magazines (Nos. 48 & 49), a free gift, exclusive access to discussion forums, and a free pattern every month!

I love exaggerated cables and cross stitch. Check these two: Wayfarer Wrap and Ranger Pullover.

Knitting up a garden of flowers

2010-07-22T17:31:00.000-04:00

Looking for a quick way to add something different to a plain sweater or piece of jewelry? In Nicky Epstein's new book, Knitted Flowers, she includes patterns for dozens of flowers to add to virtually any piece of clothing, accessory, or even as a decorative element in your home. We suggest pinning these flowers to the neckline of a t-shirt or tank top in the summer, so you can keep cool while you keep knitting!

Want to try something even more edgy for this season? Go to your local craft store and buy French ear wires and yarn, then use Nicky's pattern to create two small flowers. Slide each flower onto an ear wire until they are securely in place to create your own pair of original earrings!

Don't forget to order Nicky's book so you can learn how to create all of these wonderful designs yourself. We know you'll agree that this item is a must-have for this season.

Knittingbag's fashion color & style trends for Summer 2010

2010-07-14T09:55:00.158-04:00

Read Knittingbag’s recommended yarns, books and blogs at the end of this report.

No. 1 Color for 2010: Turquoise

Inspired by oceans and tropical islands
Flattering to everyone, men and women
Pairs well with any color in the rainbow (try warm Amparo blue)
Electrifies basic neutrals
Elegant and versatile
More Summer 2010 Colors:
Chic and cheerful, slightly softened
Green: grass and dried herbs
Blue: brighter than navy, energetic Amparo blue
Tomato puree
Violet
Yellow sunrise, slightly shimmery
Pale, dusty pink
Fusion coral, peach
Tuscany, warm beige

Fabrics
Soft, supple, light and airy, layer with muslins, voiles, gauze
Cotton and cotton blends with silk, rayon, bamboo
Linen and linen blends with silk, bamboo; soft and drapey like pieces from Eileen Fisher and Theory

Style and shapes
Jackie O, fitted high-waisted, slim-bust tops, embellished
Longer length tops and mid-knee pencil skirts
Capri pants
Blouson shapes and drawstring waists
Gathered empire flowy tops, short in front and long in back
Toga inspired layered cover ups (think tunics for Fall!)
Uneven hems on loose-fitting cropped tops
Patterns: stripes, Fair Isle or graphic
Details: ruching, knots and braids, fullness with belting and pleats

Photos courtesy of www.style.com from Spring 2010 fashion designer collections

Knittingbag recommends yarns:

Araucania’s Nature Cotton distributed through Knitting Fever:
    100% hand-dyed cotton
    106 yards.
    US 8-10 needle, Gauge 3.5 sts
    Check out Knittingbag’s Cotton Cable Stole with Olivewood Buttons

We are designing a summer sleeveless cardi/scarf in Celery #6 (available soon).

Aslan Trends Santa Fe
Hand painted finger sock and baby yarn – 85% merino, 15% polyamide.

Knittingbag has knit the “Baby Surprise Jacket” by Elizabeth Zimmerman using 2 skeins. This yarn is very “Koigu-like”, but not as expensive:

180 yds, pretty and unique colorways!
US 3 needle, gauge 6.5-7 sts
Santa Fe can be special ordered from Knittingbag.com at $8.95 per skein. Email us at info@knittingbag.com. The Baby Surprise Jacket can be purchased at Schoolhouse Press. It includes

12 patterns! Also visit this web site for lots of information about this #1 baby sweater of all time.

Blue Heron Yarns Rayon Metallic Yarn
We love this yarn for its low key shimmer and wonderful drape. The color choice is broad and beautiful.We have remade the Fleece Artist Wavy Stole in denim blue rayon metallic and will be available soon at Knittingbag.com
Pattern available at Patternfish.com
     550 yds
    US 5-6, gauge 5.75 sts
Rayon Metallic can be special ordered from Knittingbag.com at $44 per skein. Email us at info@knittingbag.com.

Jade Sapphire's Maju 100% Silk
    100% silk worsted – 85 yds
    US 8-10 needle, gauge 4 sts
    Available in over 50 colorways
We will be adding this kit to Knittingbag.com shortly!

Louet North America
Louet has it all for summer! Try their Euroflax yarn (make a swatch, but wash in shampoo and dry to feel its softness). Knittingbag’s favorite is MerLin, a blend of 70% merino and 30% linen. Wonderful all-season fabric. Knittingbag is designing a stole with arms and will be uploaded shortly to the Knittingbag.com website. All Louet yarns and patterns can be special ordered from Knittingbag.com. Email us for stock and prices at info@knittingbag.com.

Tahki Stacy Charles Loop-D-Loop Yarns and Patterns by Teva Durham

All Tahki Stacy Charles yarns and patterns can be special ordered from Knittingbag.com. Email us for stock and prices at info@knittingbag.com

SKIF Designs

Knittingbag recommends viewing the SKIF designs. We are talking to Skif in St. Louis to see if we can carry their patterns and yarns. Stay tuned for more information.
Skif reminds us of Habu designs – unstructured, loose assymetrical and easy designs! Knittingbag (me) loves their casual unfinished look. I own two of their ready-made designs and wear them layered all summer over sleeveless tees (to cover up chubby arms! Who, me?) and take them on trips to warm climes. Their designs derive from Indian cultures, “the upstream people”… to be gentle. Skif uses natural fiber blends including linen, cotton, bamboo and merino. Sizes change by using different yarn combos and tension. Body length can be altered.
Skif’s ready-made designs are carried in 30 stores nationwide.

Knittingbag recommends books

Knitwear Design Workshop
By Shirley Paden-Bernstein

From the initial spark of inspiration to the sewing of the last seam, this advanced manual to knitwear design provides knitters with the foundation to take their projects to the next level. The five exceptional projects demonstrate the level of uniqueness and beauty that can be achieved with these expert techniques and how to achieve the elusive “perfect fit” that defines a successful end product. Knitters will gain a clearer understanding of commercial pattern instructions, improve their attention to detail with a meaningful test swatch, and acquire a stronger knowledge of proper body and garment measurements.

Pure Knits : Sophisticated Designs in Shade of White (Paperback)
By Yahair Ferreira

Whether creamy and warm or wintry cool, white evokes a sense of classic purity. Celebrate its astonishing variety with a collection of 25 stunning all-white projects for intermediate to advanced knitters, all made from the most luxurious yarns ever. From sensuous sweaters for women to adorable baby and children’s outfits to rugged masculine attire, these garments take white to new levels of excitement and opulence. (amazon.com editorial review)

1,000 Fabulous Knit Hats
By Annie Modesitt

This fun collection of knit hats, curated and presented by well-known knitter and author Annie Modesitt, is sure to delight and inspire. The book includes both original designs and well-knit examples of hats of all styles; for men, women, and children alike. The top 10 original designs submissions received prizes, and those 10 award-winning hat patterns are included in the book.

The Complete Photo Guide to Knitting
By Margaret Hubert

This volume is a comprehensive how-to book about all aspects of knitting. This book is a reference for all knitting techniques, beginning with the basics of how to knit. A large section of the book is devoted to showing different stitch patterns, arranged in style categories for easy reference. Special knitting topics will be explored in depth: cables, intarsia, entrelac, Fair Isle knitting, and lace knitting. A section will discuss yarns: fibers, how they are spun, gauge, and how to choose.

Bright Young Things

Modern Baby and Children’s Knitting Patterns

In this book you will find something for all levels of knitters frombeginners to the more experienced looking for a challenging project. It contains designs ranging in size from a newborn baby through to toddlers and young children. Featuring patterns for dresses, jumpers, cardigans, outwear, accessories, and blankets.

Knittingbag recommends blogs

Cool Hunting: http://www.coolhunting.com/style/
Erika Knight : http://knightkraft.blogspot.com/
Knit Rowan: http://www.knitrowan.com/
Amy Butler Design: http://amybutlerdesign.com/
Debbie Abraham: http://www.debbieabraham.com/
Sandra Backlund: http://www.sandrabacklund.com/
WARMI: Handmade knits: http://www.parisbao.com/fashion/warmi-handmade-knits-from-the-homeland/
Jane Marvel (Great bags!!): http://janemarvel.com/
Kate Schelter: http://www.kateschelter.com/blog/
Ed Bing Lee: http://www.edbinglee.com/index.php?/root/delectables/

Hope you have a wonderful summer with lots of sun, sand and surf -- and knitting!
See you in the Fall with a new 2010/11 Winter Trend Report to inspire you.

Marcia Cleary
Designer
Knittingbag.com

Classic Elite & Unicorn Books Patterns

2010-07-10T07:55:00.001-04:00

Knittingbag recommends downloading free patterns

Classic Elite (Web-Letter, Issue 129) – Soft Chunky Broadway

Wenlan Chia has done it again! Okay, this is for winter, but think about knitting this in a chunky cotton like Araucania’s Nature Cotton. This quick-to-knit piece is great for layering and will soon become a regular in your wardrobe rotation. Knit on large needles (size 17 and 19). Download pattern here.

Unicorn Books and Crafts - Panel Jacket by Carol Lapin

This model is knit in merino, but this jacket would be great knit in a worsted silk, linen or cotton/bamboo combination. Choose a worsted blend that’s has sheen and drape. Download pattern here.

Unicorn Books and Crafts – Woven Stitch Stole by Mari Lynn Patrick

This model is also knit in merino, but would also be great knit in a worsted silk, linen or cotton/bamboo combination. Choose a worsted blend that’s has sheen and drape. Learn how to do the Swedish Weave Technique. Download pattern here.

Be sure to sign up for the Classic Elite “Web-Letter”. Check out this wonderful skirt!

Pitti Filati 67

2010-07-06T18:47:00.000-04:00

The Pitti Filati fashion show occurs two times each year, featuring the newest trends in knitting. This year the show was based in Florence, Italy, giving viewers a preview for the styles to come in fall-winter 2011-12. Buyers from all over the world came together for this event to get a first look at the newest designs in knitwear. The theme this year was simple: MOVE! This concept aimed to get people, things, and ideas moving in order to inspire new and different ideas. The show opened with an unbelievable display of hundreds of different knit designs, all featured atop cut-outs of different countries in the world.

Ciara Walsh, designer for Marc Jacobs, says about the show, "...the yarn industry is becoming increasingly flexible in terms of the customization of colors, the number of services offered and the quantities of the orders. I am always very happy to come to Florence...there are lots of new things to discover and Italian yarns express the greatest amount of creativity and innovation."

Photos courtesy of pittimmagine.com

No more boring necklines!

2010-07-02T11:13:00.000-04:00

This season, when it comes to necklaces, only one rule is to be followed: the bigger, the better. With bib necklaces as the newest craze, this is the perfect time to continue to show off your knitting skills into the summer. Below is a floral necklace by Mark Warmi, perfectly encompassing all of these new trends in one piece.

Not into the intense bulk of these accessories? Try what others are doing by simply layering chains, strings of pearls, and even pieces resembling tribal or nomadic jewelry. These pieces certainly achieve the same look, but to a lesser extreme. Erickson Beamon's White Lies Necklace is truly the perfect example of this technique- and the perfect way to spice up a plain t-shirt.

Knit at the beach this summer!

2010-06-20T12:22:00.002-04:00

Whether on land or sea, this is the cutest little bikini. Not only is it an adorable look, but it's also the perfect project to knit during the summer season. Easy to knit in either solid or any striped combination using Cascade Yarns Fixation, a fluffy stretchy cotton yarn.

Here's what other Knittingbag knitters are saying about this design, "I have finished my first bikini from your pattern and started a second. Per your recommendation, I did use Cascade Fixation ... It's a great design. My daughter-in-law [and son] LOVE it ... She'd been wearing a crocheted bikini that she'd bought from a knitwear designer in Chicago ... and she prefers the design of your pattern ... she'll be wearing it in the Aegean Sea next week when they travel to Greece."

Do you love our pattern too? Here's how to get started on your very own:

Free Downloadable PDF

Pattern info: 4 balls of Cascade Yarns Fixation – 100-186 yds (98.3% cotton, 1.7% elastic)

Needles: US 6
Gauge: 20 sts X 28 rows = 4”
Size: Small (29-32") or Medium (32-34”)

Stitches: Stockinette Stitch & Chain Selvedge
Striping:: Knit with 1, 2, 3 or 4 colors like White, Pink, Lemonade, Lilac, Lime, Crystal Pool, Blueberry, Black
See colors here

Rhinebeck Sheep & Wool Festival & Stitches East!!

2009-08-23T09:13:00.000-04:00

RHINEBECK Sheep & Wool Festival!

October 17 & 18

Dutchess County Fairgrounds

Rhinebeck, NY

For more information visit: www.sheepandwool.com/

STITCHES EAST

October 22-25

Hartford, CT

For more information visit Stitches at Knitting Universe

Download Market Brochure.

Jared Flood's new collection

2009-08-01T08:34:00.000-04:00

Out now! Jared Flood's new collection of patterns in a joint venture with Classic Elite Yarns (love their yarns!) - he produces meticulous, elegant and simple designs. Check out his blog.... one of my favorites.

http://brooklyntweed.blogspot.com/

What do to with Stash!

2009-06-22T12:57:00.000-04:00

Check out these YOKOO spectacles and other knitted creations from Yokoo at:

YOKOO

Knittingbag's fashion color & style trends 2008

2008-09-13T20:55:00.000-04:00

Knittingbag's fashion color & style trends autumn/winter 2008/2009

what the designers chose this fall
ZAC POSEN
PROMINENT COLORS
Navy/Black, Ivory/Navy, Pinks, Gray, Violet
SIGNATURE COLOR
Navy

TRACY REESE
PROMINENT COLORS
Baby blue, raven black, rustic copper, deep berry, bright teal, emerald green
SIGNATURE COLOR
Stormy blue

TEMPERLEY LONDON
PROMINENT COLORS
Rich, jewel-like colors: Lime greens, rich metallic beetle greens, raspberry, aubergine
SIGNATURE COLOR
Beetle green – emerald shot with gold

LUCA LUCA
PROMINENT COLORS
Dark plum, forest green, rust, ivory and black
SIGNATURE COLOR
Dark plum

Color

The color palette for Fall is a combination of fibrant, complex colors embellishing neutral shades of greys, browns, navy, black in unexpected creative color combos. Emerald forest and royal purple are strong.

blue iris

forest emerald

aurora red

shitake mushroom

twilight blue

pumpkin, burnished brown

royal lilac

shapes & details

snug navy or green pea coats with bigger collars
reefer coats in speckled or rustic tweeds
clothes are wrapped heavier, with woolens and cashmere
sweater-dressing, over-sized knits in color
important sleeves: volume, peplum, fanned lace
apple green cocoon cape major theme:
Pierrot-inspired collars, voluminous funnel collars and cocoon shapes, dolman sleeves

beautiful details…

beautiful shapes …..

bundling up…. cocooning, wrapping and draping

knit coats & dresses

sweaters

innovative knits
http://www.josefinalar.com/
http://www.renatamann.com

accessories – big necklaces, bangles, fibrant colors for tights & shoes

yarns

Colors this fall still favor brown and grey, and dark navy, topped off with a fibrant mix of rich colors like royal purple, emerald green, cherry red, harvest gold and burnt orange.

The yarn companies keep up with these trends and we’re seeing some wonderful new colors added to the wide array of color choices from our favorite yarn suppliers, Artyarns, Be Sweet, Classic Elite, Karabella Yarns, and Tilli Tomas.

Art Yarns
Silk Rhapsody - $44 and Silk Rhapsody with Glitter - $46 (260 yds)

Be Sweet
Magic Balls - $30 (120 yds) – a unique skein of hand-dyed solid, hand painted, special knobby, ribbon yarn and more

Special Knobby - $32 (30 yds) – one-of-a-kind handspun ball of recycled mohair bits and knobs

Classic Elite
Ariosa - $11.50 (87 yds) – 90% extra-fine merino, 10% cashmere

Portland Tweed - $10.95 (120 yds) – 50% virgin wool, 25% alpaca, 25% viscoseIris - $15.25 (65 yds) – 70% extra-fine merino, 20% silk, 10% cashmere

Karabella Yarns
Chloe - $7.25 (102 yds) – 20% angora, 30% cotton, 30% viscose, 20% poly

Iris - $15.25 (65 yds) – 70% extra-fine merino, 20% silk, 10% cashmere

Tilli Tomas
Plie Silk - $17.00 (140 yds) (100% silk and matching beaded silk)

what are we going to knit? try a skirt - we’ve sampled Art Yarns Silk Rhapsody for this design…

try a tunic in pretty stitch pattern… layer over turtleneck and silk tees. we’re sampling a Rowan Classic in gray

try a dress .. we’re sampling this in Classic Elite’s Waterlily

try a big knit coat … we’re sampling Decadent Fibers Creme Puff

Knittingbag recommends new books….

Available now!
Twinkle’s Town & Country Knits by Wenlan Chia - $32.50/$21.45 on amazon.com

Available now!
Inspired to Knit – Creating Exquisite Handknits byMichelle Rose Orne - $24.95/$16.47 on amazon.com

Coming soon (October)!
Boutique Knits by Laura Irwin - $21.95

Coming soon (October)!
Pure Knits by Yahaira Ferreira - $19.95

favorite blogs:

http://andreatung.blogspot.com/
http://brooklyntweed.blogspot.com/
http://chiclooks.blogspot.com/
http://knitlit.blogspot.com/
http://olgajazzzy.blogspot.com/

For for information contact mcleary@knittingbag.com. We would love to hear your comments and information on new yarns, new knitting notions and accessories and interesting trends you're seeing in knitwear that we can share with our readers.

Happy Feet!

2008-08-27T22:31:00.000-04:00

How great are these knitted Uggs? Blue is my favorite color, I'm a knitting fanatic, so these make me so happy. I'll be wearing these Uggs inside and out all winter. They can be worn low-rise or high-rise. Available at Ugg Australia in other colors, too.

Yum Yum! Silk Rhapsody

2008-07-07T08:28:00.000-04:00

ART YARNS Silk Rhapsody #151

I love Art Yarns' Silk Rhapsody... had to buy this skein of color 151 and knit a scarf right away, it was just too delicious to pass up. Went to visit NancyO's shop in Ridgefield, CT which has a delightful selection of yarns in a cozy shop with lots of enthusiastic knitters.

Here's the scarf knit in the Thorn Stitch, an easy openwork stitch with the look of ribbing. I cast on 44 sts (the stitch pattern is a multiple of 4 + 2, and I added 1 at each end so that I could slip the first stitch of every row to prevent rolling.

Materials:
1 skein of Art Yarns Silk Rhapsody (70% mohair/30% silk) or Silk Rhapsody Metallic - 260 yd (50% mohair/50% silk)
Needles: US 7

Here's the Thorn stitch:
Cast on 42 sts.
RS row: Knit 1 st (on the next and every row you will slip this stitch), K3, *YO (yarn over), slip 1 st, knit 1 st, pass slipped st over (psso), K2*; repeat from * to * across row, ending K1 + K1 edge st
WS row: Slip 1 st, K1, P2, *YO, P2 sts together (P2tog), P2*; repeat from * to * across row, ending K1 + k1 edge st

Repeat these 2 rows for pattern, slipping the first st on next and every row thereafter.
Knit until you finish skein allowing yarn for bind off and fringe if desired.

Design by Knittingbag.com

new! One-armhole Stole with Pocket

2008-06-25T20:27:00.000-04:00

Here’s a fresh look at the basic stole! Designed with one armhole, pocket and 4-button closure, these elements add style to a simple garment. It’s a quick and easy knit, starting with a simple rectangle, adding a slit, and finishing off with 4 buttonholes and pocket. Jo Sharp’s Silkroad Ultra is the perfect yarn for this project – it’s got body, good stitch definition, and a luxury blend of wool, silk and cashmere.
Easy
US 10 & US 10-16" circular (for armhole)
Kit includes Jo Sharp Silkroad Ultra (85% wool, 10% silk, 5% cashmere) - 60 yds (10 balls), pattern and 4 buttons
Size: S (18" W x 49" L), M 18" W x 52" L)
Cost: $90

Colors: Neptune (Charcoal), Clinker (Inky Blue), Truffle (Dk brn), Elm (Lt brn), Tapenade (Red brn), Cement (silver gray)

Contact: mcleary@knittingbag.com to place your order. Will be on web site soon!

new! Hong Kong Stole

2008-01-08T18:17:00.000-05:00

Hong Kong Stole (Cashmere)
Here’s a new twist to a basic stole design. Knit in sumptuous cashmere, we worked simple garter stitch combinations to define the rectangle with a collar and bottom edge, and garter stitch ties with openings so one front tie can slip into the other front tie to keep the stole in place. We tested lots of yarns to find the best for drape and softness this design needs to hug the body. This yummy cashmere stole is knit with Jade Sapphire’s 100% 8-ply cashmere. A Knittingbag design.

Pattern Info:
Yarn: 100% Jade Sapphire 8-ply cashmere (6 skeins)
US 10-1/2 needles
Size: S (32-34"), M (36-38"), L (40-42")
Cost: $225 (Lge + $37)
Colors: Blueblood red, natural, black, pewter, Caribbean mist, silver fern, blueberries

Karabella Aurora Bulky Version
Here's another version of the Hong Kong stole worked in Karabella's Aurora Bulky for a bigger knit look. This versatile design is the same as the cashmere version using simple garter stitch combinations to define the rectangle with a collar and bottom edge, and garter stitch ties. This version has one opening for the front tie to slip comfortably into the other front tie to keep the stole in place. This yarn has good drape and softness this design needs to hug the body. A Knittingbag design.

Pattern Info:
Yarn: Karabella Aurora Bulky (100% extrafine merino) - 54 yd
US 11
Size: S (32-34"), M (36-38"), L (40-42")
Cost: $90 (Lge + $17)
Colors: Silver grey(shown), Ivory, Black, Dark brown, Bronze brown, True green, Denim, Deep moss green, Merlot

new! Trapeze-shaped Striped Pullover

2008-01-08T18:02:00.000-05:00

Striped Trapeze Pullover
A knockout sweater to add to your collection, this fun striped trapeze-shaped pullover feels so soft and fits like a dream. It’s long enough to wear over leggings or jeans, has slightly flared sleeves, a dark band across bust line, and flattering-shaped bodice. An easy to knit pattern worked in 3 stages: top portion is knit side to side (cuff to cuff), band is then picked up on circulars and bodice is worked separately on circular needles.
Pattern Info:
Yarn: Filatura's Zara - 100% merino (137 yd)
US 6 & US 6 -24" circular
Size: S (30-32"), M (34-36"), L (38-40")
Cost for kit including pattern: $105 (Med add $9.50, Lge add $28.50)
Color combos: Grey/Black (shown), Grey/Midnight blue, Chocolate/Lt. Denim Tweed, Black&wht Tweed/Black